Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Connoisseurs' Guide
Among the more voluptuous and outgoing of the many new Williams Selyem Pinots, the Ferrington finds a varietal sweet spot that is both juicy and bright. Although it is moderately full-bodied with a good bit of fruity flesh on its bones, its richer traits are balanced by beautifully fit, very active acidity that is always in play but never forcefully sticks out in a way that dissuades drinking while the wine is still in its infancy. There are, however, reasons enough to let it grow into at least adolescence and over time, it looks sure to find a little more range and the gravitas at which it now only hints.
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Wine Enthusiast
Notable oaky aromas like cedar and clove join bold fruit and spice flavors in this medium-bodied, stylized wine from a classic producer. This bottling seems less overtly ripe and more spicy in style than recent vintages. On the palate, it oozes clove, tamarind, cardamom and black-cherry flavors. Best after 2019.
Anderson Valley, located in Mendocino County just above Sonoma County, is one of California’s coolest AVAs, allowing it a long growing season. Only 15 miles long, the region makes a slice eastward through the mountains, from the frigid Pacific Ocean. Dramatic diurnal temperature variations here preserve grape acidity and thus freshness in the finished wines. These are prime conditions for growing Pinot Noir, and the valley produces many fine versions. Characteristics of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir typically include crisp acidity, cranberry and strawberry notes as well as earthy notes of forest floor and mushroom.
Still Pinot Noir, however, is only part of the story. Pinot Noir, along with Chardonnay, are also grown for Anderson Valley’s exceptional sparkling wines. Produced via the traditional method, these offer a classic toasty note from lees aging, bright, complex fruit notes and a clean, refreshing character.